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Airlines for America said U.S. airlines improved key performance metrics in 2012. Airlines in the U.S. were superior last year in terms of baggage delivery and on-time arrivals "while continuing their stellar record of safety," said Dan Elwell, senior vice president for safety, security and operations at A4A.

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Airlines for America supports a plan introduced by Rep. Bill Shuster, R-Pa., to reform the air traffic control system. "A more efficient system with proper governance, funding and accountability will bolster our nation's first-rate safety record and result in more choice, more direct trips, lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions and fewer flight delays," said Nicholas Calio, president and CEO of A4A.

Airlines for America says the proposed hike in the PFC airport tax is unfair for airline travelers who are already paying more than their fair share in federal taxes. A dramatic spike in the passenger airport tax from $4.50 to $8 would result in a family of four paying up to $128, a $56 increase, for taking one round trip flight, according to A4A.

Airlines for America said the recent budget deal that doubles the TSA passenger security tax on the backs of airline passengers is disappointing and an example of the government’s antagonistic policies toward the U.S. airline industry. "We think the government routinely looks at this industry as a convenient ATM," said Jean Medina, a spokeswoman for A4A.

Airlines for America said a proposed increase in airline security user fees paid by passengers is a tax hike in disguise. "It's of course a tax hike," said Sean Kennedy, senior vice president of global government affairs at A4A. "This is nothing more than a mere tax grab revenue raiser for a budget deal on the backs of the traveling public."

The 10 largest U.S. airlines that have announced 2012 results earned a profit of $152 million, or 21 cents per passenger, for the year after facing high fuel costs. John Heimlich, chief economist for Airlines for America, said U.S. carriers are "setting up a foundation for a structurally more healthy industry."